Restorative Moment in Court

Source: (2002) LawTalk. 586:18-19.

As a duty solicitor supervisor in Auckland District Court, Jim Boyack had an unusual experience that reminded him of the restorative justice potential in every criminal case. In this essay, he relates the incident, which involved charges against two brothers for various actions, including assault and resisting the police. Due to circumstances in the court at the time of the hearing, and following the acceptance of a plea bargain by all parties, the proceedings led to an impromptu, mediated conference between the brothers, their family and friends, solicitors, and the affected police. Boyack describes the meeting and its restorative effects for those involved.